Jessica Jones (2015-present) – Season One Review

★★★★★ – “Pleasantly surprising.”

Jessica Jones is the next instalment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), following on from Daredevil, which also premiered last year. Set in the same Hell’s Kitchen, Jessica Jones takes a look at dark tones and topics such as depression, guilt, sex, death, rape and assault; and this only makes the story drive more. Daredevil was dark, but this is much, much darker.

Firstly, one of the things that stood out for me right from the start is the beautiful cinematography and direction. This show looks stunning; there’s so much colour and vibrancy, not only in the backdrop, but in the characters too. Jessica is played by Krysten Ritter (Breaking Bad), who surprisingly, without any major, notable roles thus far, shines throughout the season in a powerful, yet gentle and subtle performance. David Tennant is incredible with his take on Kilgrave. I originally had no expectations for his character, or his performance before watching. But he really is convincing and quite menacing, and creepy at times.

The music by Sean Callery is stunning and eerie, just as it should be. The titles are the first thing you see, each episode, so it had to capture your attention straight away. And it does. With ‘elevator music’ elements and subtle piano melodies, it all kicks off soon when the percussion drives in and takes control with blasting electric guitars and solo- like touches which really pulls the mood together; then, finally settles you with the main title logo. Perfect.

It’s worth noting that although Jessica has ‘special’ powers, there aren’t any huge scenes when special effects are used to amplify these moments of power and force. It’s mostly camera tricks to show her strength and ‘jumping and falling’ powers. So, if you’re planning on watching for an over-the-top smash fest, you won’t find it here. Also, if you’re ignoring the age certificate then I’ll warn you, there are a couple scenes of a sexual nature.

Verdict; Jessica Jones is another insanely good instalment to the MCU canon and should not be missed by any fan of Marvel. It even attracts the ‘noir’ feel which has major potential to entertain even the casual comic book fan. This is by far one of the best Marvel series yet.